Grenoside festival team say 'Christmas is definitely not cancelled'

In these uncertain times organisers of the annual event, which attracts hundreds of visitors each year, still wanted to do something that brightens up Christmas for everyone in Grenoside and beyond.

One of the organisers, Chris Levesley, said: “The event can’t be held in its usual format this year due to Covid-19 restrictions, so instead we are asking the people of Grenoside to take part in the first-ever Grenoside Christmas Tree Trail.

"Christmas is definitely not cancelled in Grenoside!

“We want families and businesses to get involved by decorating and theming Christmas trees outside their premises and homes.

"We will create a mapped walking trail, making the village THE place in Sheffield to visit this December.”

Grenoside Christmas Tree Trail will run for the whole of December, with voting for the public's favourite tree taking place from the 5th to the 13th.

There will be two main points to buy maps, costing £2, over the weekend of December 5-6 and voting will be completed online or by dropping off a voting slip.

Entry is open to everyone in Grenoside and families or businesses can decorate a tree in their garden – either a traditional Christmas tree bought for the trail or an existing tree or bush.

It must be easily visible from the road.

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Chris added: “2020 has been a different year for everyone so we wanted to do something that everyone in the village could be involved in.

"Hopefully it will bring some much-needed Christmas cheer and any money raised will be split between the Scout and Guide headquarters fund and the Grenoside Community Centre.”

After the event all Christmas trees can be collected – minus their decorations, of course - and will be shredded and the chippings used to improve footpaths in nearby woods.

A Facebook page has been set up to promote the event and share updates - search for Grenoside Christmas Tree 2020.

Web link: www.facebook.com/grenosidechristmastreefestival

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.